Drentsche Patrijshond / Drent, Dutch Partridge Dog, Drentse Partridge Dog

Breed history:

 It is an ancient breed whose origins are clear. It was raised for hunting in the region of Drenthe, in Eastern Netherlands. This breed was officially acknowledged in the Netherlands in 1943.

Description:

 It is a medium- to large-sized, strong dog, long rather than tall. The head is short, rectangular, the skull is broad and flat, the muzzle is conical and the nose is big and brown. The eyes are medium-sized and amber. The ears are medium-sized, wide at the bottom and pointed at the tip, drooping and covered with long hair. The tail is long, bushy, with a bent tip, carried low, horizontally when  walking. When alert or when it discovers prey, the tail is carried high, in the shape of a circle. The fur has medium length, thick hair, slightly longer on the ears, neck, legs and tail, forming fringes. It is white with brown or orange patches.

Personality:

 It is an intelligent, obedient, curious, watchful and alert dog. It is devoted and gentle with its master, affectionate and jolly around children, but watchful and cautious with strangers. It gets along well with other dogs or animals. It has a good sense of smell.

Grooming:

 This dog's fur needs weekly brushing, done more frequently during the shedding period. Excess hair between the footpads and from the ears should be removed.

Living conditions:

 It feels best outoors but it can adapt to a flat, if it gets its the daily exercise it needs to keep both its physical and mental health. It likes to run by a bike, or to run freely, to play fetch and to take long walks. It needs training and socialization.

Training:

 It is an easy to train dog, because it is obedient and learns quickly. The training must be consistent, gentle and varied.

Usefulness:

 It is a good hunting dog for birds (quails), even in water. It is a pleasant and obedient companion.